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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Dana White
Phone: 770-441-1443
Fax: 770-441-3258

CONSUMER PROTECTION AND EDUCATION IS THE GOAL FOR NEW TRADE ASSOCIATION

NORCROSS, GEORGIA (September 27, 1999) - Food temperature indicator manufacturers joined forces recently to form an organization devoted to the education of consumers in the use of thermometers for food safety - the Food Temperature Indicator Association (FTIA).

Noting the increase in the occurrence of E. coli and other food pathogens in the food chain, and a 1996 Kansas State research study indicating that relying on the color of ground beef was insufficient in determining doneness, temperature indicator manufacturers determined than an organization focusing on consumer education will provide an important service.

The FTIA is comprised of a variety of companies involved in the production and distribution of food temperature measurement products. The organization will function as a liaison between the food industry, government, and consumers while also acting as a conduit of accurate and consistent information to and from the USDA on the proper use of food temperature indicators.

The USDA warmly supports the organization. Consumers often receive confusing and often conflicting information in cooking instructions about doneness temperatures and how to use food thermometers properly. The FTIA aims to make sure that this type of information disseminated to trade and consumers is valid and consistent. In addition, the new organization will promote the use of temperature indicators for home and foodservice use, create and maintain partnerships within the temperature indicator industry, and fund research to support their efforts while additionally providing scientific and technical data to develop performance standards.

Working with other food industry trade associations, the FTIA will work to raise important issues concerning food safety and promote the use of accurate food temperature measurement devices. The organization wants to make it clear that "Temperature Safety is More Than Just a Matter of Good Taste." The FTIA's first press conference and meeting of its entire membership will be scheduled for January, 2000 in Washington, DC, and will coincide with the government's launch of its own food thermometer campaign.

For more information about the FTIA, its activities and membership contact FTIA Chair, Ed Gustafson at 770-441-1443.